Abstract

We found that a single chain of double strand DNA molecule undergoes a first-order phase transition by the direct observation of the conformation in individual DNA with fluorescence microscopy. It has become clear that a single DNA chain changes its higher order structure between expanded coil and shrunken globule in a discrete manner. The effective volume occupied by single DNA chain in the coil state is ca. 10 4 times greater than that in the globule state. The dynamic process of the globule formation, or nucleation and growth, is analyzed by measuring individual DNA molecules with fluorescence microscopy. We show that the apparent contour length of the DNA coil decreases with a constant speed, accompanied by the growth of the globular structure.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.